The description 'shoplifter' should be dropped in favour of 'thief' according to Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Grove. He says this offence is simply shop THEFT.

Mr Grove says: "Thieves like easy targets. They are lazy and choose options that will give them the least chance of being caught.

"Humberside Police are now working closely with retailers to give them staff training and advice on dealing with thieves, focusing on being more proactive, making their products and systems more secure, and targeting known prolific offenders."

Mr Grove also points to a rise in burglaries from sheds, garages and outbuildings.

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"With this type of crime, when the police are called it's usually already too late," he says.

"Many of us keep valuable items in sheds and garages. Bikes and tools left poorly secured or not at all are gifts to thieves, so as householders we all need to play our part to protect our property.

"Our Neighbourhood Policing Teams and Community Safety Volunteers have been doing some superb work in areas where these burglaries have been highest.

"Fitting shed alarms, engraving post codes on cycles and giving out crime prevention advice, helping you to help protect yourselves. Last year we were blessed with a good summer, but it's also a blessing for criminals."